A FUNDRAISER in memory of late football legend Gary Speed has raised thousands of pounds.

More than £2,800 has so far been pledged to the fundraising drive, launched by comedian John Martin in aid of Liverpool-based charity Compass Counselling.

Mr Martin told the Leader the idea came about after his friend Sam Kane wrote a song with a football theme, so he asked some Liverpool and Everton FC stars to join in.

The result, 'EverPool FC Salutes the NHS', has had upwards of 4,000 views on Youtube and is in memory of Gary Speed, from Flintshire.

John Lewis explained: "We've had lots of people involved with it, including Ian Rush, Kevin Ratcliffe, Michael Owen, Barry Horne and Ricky Tomlinson.

"We knitted everyone's videos together and it turned out great.

"I was good friends with Gary Speed and I am still big friends with his mum and dad, Carol and Roger.

"Compass Counselling is a mental health charity and I suggested to Carol that we could raise the money for this charity in memory of Gary."

Mr and Mrs Speed also appear at the beginning of the video, thanking viewers for their support of the fundraiser.

Carol Speed told the Leader she was proud to be involved in the scheme and encouraged others to donate where they could.

Mr Martin added: "We've raised a fantastic amount so far but I hope it carries on.

"We're hearing an awful lot about coronavirus and while you can see symptoms when people are ill, you can't necessarily see the symptoms of mental health difficulties.

"People have been locked in their homes and could have anxiety and stress - I think this is something that will need to be dealt with and I'm just doing what I can to raise money to help."

Gary Speed, who was born in Mancot and was 42, had overseen a run of four wins in five games as Wales boss.

The former Hawarden High School pupil's achievements included a long stint at the top of English football, with his 535 Premier League appearances for Leeds, Everton, Newcastle and Bolton.

To see the JustGiving page and to donate, visit: https://justgiving.com/crowdfunding/garyspeed